The embarassment stemming from Economic Observer Qiu Ziming’s defamation warrant has actually ushered in some real change in protections for journalists. Now, prosecutors will have to obtain approval from higher-level procuratorates before being allowed to order arrest warrants on accusations of defamations. “To issue low-quality or incorrect arrest warrants not only violates people’s legitimate rights, but also severely undermines the credibility of prosecuting authorities and tarnishes the image of the Communist Party of China and the government,” said a statement from the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP), the highest prosecution authority in the country.